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Balance outcomes following a tap dance program for a child with congenital myotonic muscular dystrophy
Charlanne Biricocchi1, JaimeLynn Drake, Lana Svien
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota.
Insights
A 6-week tap dance program improved static and dynamic balance in a child with congenital myotonic muscular dystrophy (MMD1). This intervention shows potential for enhancing motor skills in pediatric neuromuscular conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Neuromuscular Disorders
- Motor Skill Development
Background:
- Congenital myotonic muscular dystrophy (MMD1) is a rare genetic disorder affecting muscle function.
- Balance impairments are common in children with congenital MMD1, impacting daily activities.
- Progressive therapeutic exercise programs are crucial for managing pediatric neuromuscular conditions.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old girl with congenital MMD1 participated in a 6-week progressive tap dance program.
- Classes were adapted for children with special needs, including one typically developing peer.
- Assessments included the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2) and the Pediatric Balance Scale.
Findings:
- The participant's BOT-2 balance score significantly improved from 3 to 14.
- The Pediatric Balance Scale score remained unchanged throughout the 6-week program.
- This suggests improvements in specific aspects of static and dynamic balance.
Implications:
- Progressive tap dancing may be a beneficial and engaging therapeutic intervention for children with congenital MMD1.
- Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and broader applicability of dance-based programs.
- This case highlights the potential for creative, adaptive physical activities to enhance motor function in pediatric populations with rare diseases.
Purpose:
This case report describes the effects of a 6-week progressive tap dance program on static and dynamic balance for a child with type 1 congenital myotonic muscular dystrophy (congenital MMD1).
Summary Of Key Points:
A 6-year-old girl with congenital MMD1 participated in a 1-hour progressive tap dance program. Classes were held once a week for 6 consecutive weeks and included 3 children with adaptive needs and 1 peer with typical development. The Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, second edition (BOT-2) balance subsection and the Pediatric Balance Scale were completed at the beginning of the first class and the sixth class. The participant's BOT-2 score improved from 3 to 14. Her Pediatric Balance Scale score did not change.
Conclusion:
Participation in a progressive tap dance class by a child with congenital MMD1 may facilitate improvements in static and dynamic balance.
